A girl was compelled to flee her residence after 50 to 100 raccoons surrounded it and demanded meals – hounding her day and evening.
She advised officers in Poulsbo, within the US state of Washington, she began feeding a household of raccoons many years in the past.
That appeared innocent till the quantity exhibiting up at her property rose from a handful to dozens – with some scratching at her entrance door and at her automotive.
A few of those that turned up have been aggressive, stated Kevin McCarty, a spokesperson for Kitsap County Sheriff’s Workplace.
Footage from the sheriff’s workplace confirmed between 50 to round 100 raccoons milling round timber outdoors the lady’s residence.
“She stated these raccoons have been changing into more and more extra aggressive, demanding meals, that they might hound her day and evening – scratching on the outdoors of her residence, on the door,” stated Mr McCarty.
“If she pulled up her automotive, they might encompass the automotive, scratch on the automotive, encompass her if she went from her entrance door to her automotive or went outdoors in any respect.
“They noticed this as a meals supply now, in order that they stored coming again to it and so they stored anticipating meals.”
He added: “This can be a nuisance drawback, sort of her personal making, that she has to take care of.”
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It’s unlawful to feed massive carnivores, akin to bears or cougars – however whereas some areas could have native statutes forbidding the feeding of different wildlife, it isn’t in opposition to state legislation to take action, stated Bridget Mire, a spokesperson for the Washington Division of Fish and Wildlife.
Nevertheless, the company does discourage individuals from feeding wildlife, she stated. Raccoons can carry ailments, and meals can even appeal to predators akin to coyotes and bears.
“The raccoons seem to have began dispersing now that they’re not being fed, and we’re glad for a optimistic final result to this case,” she added.